: Since its reopening, the Wheeler has hosted legendary performers like John Denver , Lyle Lovett , and Judy Collins . It also helped launch the careers of comedians like Dave Chappelle and Bill Maher through the HBO Comedy Arts Festival.
: On April 23, 1889, the theater opened with the comic opera The King’s Fool . The night was so prestigious that local hat makers were overwhelmed by orders for fine millinery. wheeleroperahouse
The story of the is a dramatic tale of "boom and bust" that mirrors the history of Aspen itself. From its grand, rose-scented opening in 1889 to its near-destruction by arson, the building has survived through the resilience of the Aspen community. Wheeler Opera House Event venue ClosedAspen, CO Directions The Silver King’s Vision (1889) : Since its reopening, the Wheeler has hosted
: The theater was boarded up and abandoned for nearly 30 years, eventually purchased by the City of Aspen in 1918 for just $1,155 in back taxes. Renovation & Fame (1940s–Present) The night was so prestigious that local hat
: Renowned architect Herbert Bayer led early renovations, initially keeping the fire-charred beams exposed as a minimalist design choice before a full Victorian restoration in 1984.